"Aaand that's what's been going down!" Makoto concluded her tale of the past two and a half weeks to her best friend, Noel. She recounted her brand-new living arrangements, her job at a cozy restaurant with its share of quirky characters, and most importantly, the sense of peace she was starting to feel… most of the time, at least.

"It's great to hear you're getting back on your feet! How's big brother?" Noel inquired.

Makoto glanced toward the kitchen, where Ragna was frying an egg. "Big brother is quite shirtless at the moment," she responded with a distracted tone.

"I... don't think I needed to know that."

Because she didn't mean to say it! Stupid washboard abs! Makoto recovered swiftly. "Considering your 'crush' on him, I thought you'd be thrilled, Mrs. 'I wouldn't mind marrying him'." Makoto couldn't resist teasing Noel, who had always been deeply attached to Ragna, far beyond mere sibling bonds. It was clear that Noel genuinely adored her big brother, and Makoto couldn't resist poking fun.

"Will you ever let that go?"

"Nope, it's too funny and cute," Makoto admitted, feeling a hint of hypocrisy since she herself had entertained the idea of marriage. Still, she knew there were worse ways to spend her years, like wasting them on a guy who would drain her savings. "I should be moving out in the next couple of months. My New Year's resolution is to save up enough for my own apartment."

"Are you in that much of a hurry?"

"I don't want to take advantage of your kindness for too long. Last thing I wanna feel like is a leech." Makoto acknowledged the genuine warmth of the siblings. Refusing help seemed to be against their nature, even though the brothers often appeared stoic or grumpy.

"Makoto, you know that isn't true," Noel admonished.

"It feels that way to me. Besides, having that mindset helps me avoid procrastination."

"Yo, Makoto, food's ready," Ragna called.

"About time! Hey, Noel, I'll call you later, 'kay?"

"Mhm. Tell big brother goodbye and that I love him!"

Hanging up, Makoto rushed over the couch and relayed, "Love and kisses from your little sis, big bro."

"Sounds like she's doing well," Ragna commented.

"Just as sweet and irresistibly adorable as always. Speaking of irresistible…" Makoto moved toward the table, where her breakfast simmered alongside two hundred pounds of barely-clothed masculinity. Guess he's not a big fan of shirts. Neither was she, from the look of it.

"Eat," Ragna said, conscious where her eyes lurked.

"Don't you worry, I'm feasting like a queen right now." Before Makoto gorged herself on piping hot abs and a very pronounced V-line, she dug into breakfast. The combination of toasted raisin bagels, bacon, and eggs was a symphony of flavors resounding in her stomach.

Ragna poured himself a cup of coffee and quirked an eyebrow at her. "Want some?"

"Don't mind if I do." Makoto took his cup and immediately regretted it, sticking her tongue out and scrunching up her face as if she'd bitten into a lemon. "Ugh! Way too bitter!"

"Taking my cup of joe, and you're complaining?"

"You watch way too many old movies," she joked. "Besides, yours is automatically better since I get an indirect morning kiss for a pick-me-up."

"You can't be serious with that childish stuff."

"Just kidding!" Makoto laughed, though meant it half-heartedly.

"Need more bacon?"

"No, I'm good. I can't be late for work just because you want to stuff me." Endless possibilities there.

As Makoto got ready for work, she realized that her earlier thoughts about Ragna and his potential plans for New Year's were consuming her mind. Did he have a girlfriend? Over two weeks in and Ragna hadn't mentioned one; however, Makoto had never inquired on the subject, either. Later that evening, after returning from her shift, Makoto and Ragna sat on the couch watching a movie. She had the controller last night so it was his this time, choosing an old cowboy movie. Before Ragna called it for the night since he had an early shift tomorrow, Makoto seized the opportunity to ask. "So, what are you doing for New Year's?"

Ragna's response was straightforward. "I haven't really thought about it."

Makoto pressed on. "I thought you might have someone to spend it with."

"That would involve mingling, and you know I'm not into that." Ragna's voice held a touch of annoyance. "But don't worry about me. If you have plans, go ahead. You've got the keys."

Makoto hesitated before finally asking, "Sooo you'll be spending New Years here?"

His gaze sharpened. "You're not planning on bringing some guy home for the night, are ya?"

Makoto's tail bristled in irritation. "What the hell?! No! That's not what I had in mind!"

"Then why are you acting like there's a mine under your ass? Spit it out."

"Never mind." Makoto crossed her arms, her frustration evident. "It's not important."

"If you say so." Ragna settled back into the couch. "I was gonna ask you if you wanted to go somewhere, but I hadn't figured out the details yet."

Makoto blinked. "Huh?"

"Since New Years is approaching, I thought we could just wander around and find something to do. Interested?"

Makoto collected herself before answering with a resounding "yes!" Doing that would make her sound desperate! Yeah, play it cool. "Sure, I'll tag along if that's what you want. Keep you company."

Ragna scowled. "If it's that much of a pain in the ass, then forget it."

Backfired! "No, no! It isn't at all. I'd love to spend New Years with you!" Ragna headed to bed with a nod and Makoto sighed in relief. She'd been one step away from ruining her own plans. Makoto arrived at work the next day with a sense of anticipation. The idea of spending New Years with Ragna was both exciting and nerve-wracking. During her shift, Makoto found herself chatting with Celica, her cheerful coworker. Over half the store's regulars came for her.

"Makoto, you seem really happy today! Did something good happen?" Celica's big, soft maroon eyes were wide with curiosity.

Makoto grinned, realizing she must be practically glowing. "Yeah, actually. I might have plans for New Year's Eve."

Celica clapped her hands together, her smile infectious. "That's wonderful! You deserve to have a great time."

"I hope so." Makoto paused for a moment, then decided to confide in Celica. "But here's the thing– I'm not exactly sure what to wear. I wanna look good, y'know? The clothes I've got now are kinda worn out."

Celica's eyes twinkled with excitement, her ponytail bouncing as she hopped. "Makoto, I'd love to help you pick out an outfit! We can go shopping after work."

"Are you sure? I wouldn't want to trouble you," Makoto said.

Celica waved her hand dismissively. "Nonsense! It'll be fun. Plus, you're my friend, and friends help each other out, right?"

"You're an angel!" Makoto picked her up in a strong hug, swaying her from side to side. "I love you! Thanks, Celica, I appreciate it."

"M-Makoto, I love you too, but you're kind of… crushing… me…"

"Makoto dear," Amane's voice drifted over from behind the counter. "There is such a thing as too much love, honey.

"Hm?" Makoto's face went pale as Celica's eyes vanished. "Oh my gosh! Celica! Can you hear me?! Speak to me!"

Amane chuckled. "It's fabulous you two dearies get along so well, but I'd rather not have to file a dead person report."

Makoto set Celica down before the latter crossed over and immediately apologized for her hyper-enthusiasm. The end of their shift marked the beginning of an exciting shopping adventure. They stepped out of the restaurant, their breath visible in the chilly air. Makoto pulled her jacket tighter around her as they headed towards the shopping district. Warmth enveloped them as they entered a clothing store, a welcome contrast to the brisk outdoor air. Rows of sweaters in various colors and styles greeted them. Reflecting on it, Makoto realized that some time had passed since she last went shopping with another girl.

"Where should we start?" Celica wondered, her finger tapping her chin in thought. She frequented this store often and could attest to the amount of quality items to choose from.

"I'm looking for a cute sweater for our walk around town, sooo that-a-way." Makoto spotted a rack of knit sweaters in various hues. Her fingers traced over a deep chestnut knit sweater with intricate patterns that caught her eye. "What about this one, Celica? This color just screams Makoto Nanaya."

Celica nodded in approval. "It's cute! Try it on."

Selection in hand, Makoto and Celica headed to the fitting rooms. The deep chestnut turtleneck sweater she had picked held the promise of both style and warmth. She slipped into the changing room, the anticipation building as she peeled off her current top. As Makoto pulled the slim-fitted turtleneck sweater over her head and eased it onto her body, she was greeted by the soft, snug embrace of the fabric. The turtleneck collar brushed against her neck, providing a comforting sensation against her skin.

Makoto smoothed her hands over the fabric, her fingers trailing along the intricate cable knit. The slim cut of the sweater created a silhouette that exuded confidence and comfort, embracing her body with gentle care. Makoto turned to the mirror, her breath catching as she took in her reflection. The deep brown hue of the sweater complemented her hair and eyes, enhancing her natural beauty.

"Hey, Celica!" Makoto called, her voice tinged with excitement. "I'm about to step out. Can you give me your honest opinion?"

From outside the changing room, Celica's voice chimed in. "I can't wait to see!"

"Then stand back and be amazed, cuz here comes Ms. Kagutsuchi!" Makoto swung open the door and stepped out dramatically. Celica's delighted smile melted away any remaining doubt.

"Wow, Makoto…"

To add a touch of flair, Makoto struck a pose. "Good, great, awesome? I know how to pick 'em, huh?"

Celica's eyes cruised downward. "You really are big…"

Makoto blanched, her cheeks flushing with a hint of self-consciousness at the blunt remark. "Haha… Not exactly what I was goin' for, but that's a start."

"O-oh! Hehe, sorry." Celica refocused on the outfit. "Perfect. The color, the fit– it's definitely screaming Makoto Nanaya!" Celica gave two enthusiastic thumbs up.

Makoto chuckled, a blend of embarrassment and excitement filling her. "Right?"

Celica clapped. "Do you have a nice pair of jeans? That would go well with a cute pair of boots, I think."

"To the jeans!" Makoto hooked Celica by the arm and the two headed towards the section of the store that held an array of jeans. They browsed through the racks, scanning the different styles and washes. Boots were a non-issue; she had a pair at home that would fit the occasion just fine.

"How about these, Makoto?" Celica asked, holding up a pair of dark-washed jeans.

Makoto examined them and nodded appreciatively. "Let's see how they fit." They made their way back to the fitting rooms, and Makoto slipped into the jeans. She stepped out in the hopeful ensemble. "Whaddaya think, Celica?"

Celica's eyes lit up as she looked Makoto up and down. "Those jeans fit you like a glove! You're absolutely rocking that outfit."

"Aw, shucks!" Makoto twirled around playfully, the jeans moving with her as if they were tailor-made for her curves. Satisfied with the outfit, Makoto returned to the fitting room to change back into her own clothes. As they left the store, shopping bags in hand, Makoto felt a sense of accomplishment and joy. "Thanks for shopping with me," Makoto said, her voice filled with gratitude.

"Anytime! Shopping for cute outfits is always fun," Celica chimed with a bright smile.

Makoto grinned. "I have to do something to repay you. Name it."

A mischievous glint danced in Celica's eyes. "Well…" Without warning, she darted behind Makoto and playfully shoved her face into Makoto's bushy tail. "This should be adequate repayment!"

Makoto yelped in surprise, her cheeks turning a shade of pink. "H-hey! Don't just do that out in the open like that!" she chastised, though a hint of laughter tugged at the corners of her lips.

Celica's laughter bubbled forth as she continued to rub her face in the warmth of Makoto's tail. "Sorry, I can't control myself anymore. I've been meaning to do this all day! Besides, you crushed me earlier, so I definitely deserve this!"

"What is with you people and my tail?!" she exclaimed.

Finally pulling away, Celica's grin remained. "I can't help it! Your tail is just so fluffy and irresistible."

"Does my tail have a sign that says 'rest your face here'?!" Makoto shook her head, chuckling softly. Noel held similar tendencies, though much less reserved.

Celica's eyes sparkled with amusement. "You can't blame someone for being drawn to it. It's just super cute!"

Makoto's expression softened at the compliment. Certain folks would heavily disagree with that statement, but airing that kind of baggage would just dampen the mood. The people who truly mattered to her, the ones she cared for deeply and who reciprocated that care, appreciated her for who she was, and Makoto could live with that. "Fine… I did say I wanted to repay you after all." Makoto swayed her tail for Celica. "Have at it."

Nothing more needed to be said as Celica returned to the fluffy heaven that was her friend's tail.

Thanks for the beta-read Wild Blue Sonder!

Another chapter posted far later than I wanted too. I have the next chapter already storyboarded so I'm hoping there isn't some long hiatus again. Reunion might see its final chapter soon as well.

Till then!